Though the rivalry was not halted, the Crosstown Classic was bemoaned for its neutral-court surroundings the past two seasons. For most of its history, the game was held on the campuses of Cincinnati and Xavier. And while there were initially some conversations about even continuing/not continuing the series after the brawl, cooler heads prevailed and the teams met annually.

Fans accepted that and somewhat-accepted playing the games on a neutral court, at US Bank Arena. But both sides wanted a return to what the series offered: intra-city basketball at both teams' digs.

So starting next season, it's a 10-year contract for the two, with the Bearcats getting first hosting duties. One of the best rivalries in the sport just got a return to its proper stage(s), and hoops fans in the Queen City have to be thrilled.

Matt Norlander is a national award-winning senior writer who has been with CBS Sports since 2010. He's in his eighth season covering college basketball for CBS, and also covers the NBA Draft, the Olympics,...
Full Bio